By Katie Lamar Jackson | March 2009

• Introduction
• Pruning procedures
• Timing & tools
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Timing & tools

The next big issue is the timing of your pruning activity. You can prune dead or diseased limbs at any time during the year, but more extensive pruning should be done at fairly specific times of year depending on the plant. Timing varies depending on local climates, so it’s always safer to check with local plant experts for a local timetable. Generally, though, flowering or fruiting shrubs can be pruned after they finish blooming or fruiting, while many fruit trees are best pruned when they are dormant.

Finally, always use sharp pruning tools so the cut will be clean and try to cut into live wood or stem but avoid injuring the bark around the remaining branches. And do not use pruning paints or dressings. Research has shown these do not promote healing and may even trap bugs or diseases in the stem.

Once you get the hang of it, pruning can be an almost artistic exercise. Who knows, you may be the next Edward Scissorhands.

Katie Lamar Jackson is a writer, editor and photographer for the Alabama Agricultural Experimental State and Auburn University school of agriculture.